The Tide Is High
John Holt Lyrics


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The tide is high but I'm holding on
I'm gonna be your number one

I'm not the kinda man who gives up just like that, no oh oh oh
It's not the things you do, that really hurts me bad
But it's the way you do the things, you do to me

I'm not the kinda man who gives up just like that no oh oh oh
The tide is high but I'm holding on
I'm gonna be your number one
Number one, number one

Every man wants you to be his girl
But I'll wait my dear 'till it's my turn
I'm not the kinda man who gives up just like that, no oh oh oh

Every man wants you to be his girl
But I'll wait my dear 'till it's my turn
I'm not the kinda man who gives up just like that, no oh oh oh

The tide is high but I'm holding on
I'm gonna be your number one
The tide is high but I'm holding on
I'm gonna be your number one




The tide is high but I'm holding on
I'm gonna be your number one

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of John Holt's "The Tide Is High" is a story of a man who is trying to win the heart of a woman who is desired by many. The singer is sure of his affection for the woman, and no matter how high the tide may get, he is not giving up on her. He wants to be her number one, and he believes that he can be the one to make her happy.


The song begins with Holt acknowledging the challenge he faces, but he reassures the woman that he is not going to give up easily. He believes that the woman's actions are not hurting him, but the way she does those actions to him is what really hurts. This line reveals how much he loves her and how much he is willing to go through to win her love.


In the second verse, Holt reiterates that he is not the kind of man who gives up quickly. He understands that other men want to be with her but is willing to wait his turn. He believes that he can make her happy and be the one for her, and he won't give up until he achieves his goal. The chorus repeats the statement that the tide is high, but he is holding on, and he is going to be her number one no matter what.


Overall, the song portrays the singer's determination to win the heart of the woman he loves. He is not going to give up despite the challenges and obstacles he faces. The lyrics are simple yet powerful, and Holt's voice brings out the emotions of the song.


Line by Line Meaning

The tide is high but I'm holding on
Despite the obstacles and challenges, I am persevering and remaining steadfast in my pursuit of you.


I'm gonna be your number one
I have a strong desire to be your top choice and priority.


I'm not the kinda man who gives up just like that, no oh oh oh
I am a determined individual who will not easily give up or abandon my pursuit.


It's not the things you do, that really hurts me bad
The actual actions you take do not cause me pain or harm.


But it's the way you do the things, you do to me
However, the way you carry out those actions towards me is what hurts me deeply.


Every man wants you to be his girl
You are a desirable and sought-after individual whom many people desire to be with.


But I'll wait my dear 'till it's my turn
I am willing to patiently wait until the timing is right for me to pursue a relationship with you.


Number one, number one
Reiterating my strong desire to be your top choice and priority.




Lyrics © O/B/O APRA/AMCOS

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

@locustkingofdecayingcorpse

I knew I wasn't crazy, I always remembered a man sung it

@stephenfernandes1045

I just came to know he was d original singer of this song, always thought it was atomic kitten, then came to know about Blondie. But someone told me John Holt was d original singer. Thank you Mr.John

@LennoxRobinson-rx3bm

Straight fire rip john

@augustuswhite5211

IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT WE GET THE FACTS RIGHT ON THIS SONG BECAUSE OF ITS HISTORICAL PLACE IN THE HISTORY OF POPULAR MUSIC.
THE ORIGINAL VERSION WAS MADE BY JOHN HOLT AND THE PARAGONS.
Blondie did a version which made into the UK Chart at no1.
Atomic Kitten then made another version and got into the Uk Chart as well top 10. I hope this clear up the arguments.peace

@MDOurMD

Blondie's version also made it to #1 in the USA. I hope Mr. Holt received his due royalties, if not his due credit for the song.

@MrFefeleaga

Rest in peace!! THIS GUY HAS TRANSFORMEEEE333DD THE HISTORY OF MUSIC AND MANKIND! Unbelievable... beautiful!

@dtb9235

Can't believe I'm only just discovering the original here and now! What a legend!

@sammanahov2168

Meee to.
Just now

@syunsuketogo6540

Right,I came from the paragons years ago too

@markmeade478

RIP John Holt, the world had lost your shining star but your memory lives on.....

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